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As winter challenges loom, there’s a significant risk that we’ll once again be reminded of the vulnerabilities in our power grid. However, there are promising opportunities to enhance resilience, regardless of snow and freezing temperatures. By increasing the digitization of substations, grid operators can strengthen operational reliability, optimize maintenance efforts, and create a more stable power supply.

At Gomero, we highlight the three main reasons why increased digitization is particularly important during winter:

Proactive monitoring of critical components

Substations face significant stress during winter—cold, moisture, and ice formation are just a few examples. With smart sensors and monitoring systems, factors such as oil temperature, voltage, and humidity can be monitored and analysed in real-time. By detecting anomalies early, measures can be taken before they result in operational disruptions or unexpected outages.

Automation for quick response to disruptions

When extreme weather events affect the power grid, automation is a crucial factor. Self-adjusting systems in substations can balance the load, initiate backup systems, and address anomalies without requiring manual intervention. The result is a more reliable electricity supply, even under challenging conditions.

Streamlined maintenance and a safer work environment

Winter places heavy demands on both the power grid infrastructure and the efforts of its personnel. By reducing the need for manual inspections, staff can focus on preventive measures and critical tasks. At the same time, employees are protected from hazardous situations as they avoid fieldwork during extreme weather. In this way, technology not only enhances efficiency but also ensures a safer and more sustainable work environment.

Summary

Winter challenges call for robust solutions to ensure the power grid can meet increased demands and unpredictable weather conditions. The digitization of substations improves resilience and provides better insights into how the infrastructure is affected, enabling proactive measures that strengthen both operational reliability and sustainability.